New York Construction Report staff writer
A total of 22 community development projects have been announced for the North Country as part of New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward programs. The projects are aimed at supporting local economies, improving infrastructure, and enhancing quality of life in three villages: Lowville, Canton, and Alexandria Bay.
Lowville was awarded $9.7 million as part of Round 7 of the DRI, which will fund 10 projects. Canton and Alexandria Bay each received $4.5 million in Round 2 of the NY Forward program, supporting five and seven projects, respectively.
Lowville’s 10 projects are focused on revitalizing its downtown area by improving public spaces, reusing historic buildings, and increasing housing and business opportunities. Major projects include:
- Veteran’s Memorial Park Improvements ($2.8 million): Upgrades to parking, sidewalks, and green infrastructure to improve access and pedestrian safety.
- State Street Enhancements ($1.7 million): Crosswalks, curb extensions, and street plantings to make downtown more accessible and attractive.
- Renovation of Stevens Block ($1.6 million): Conversion of an abandoned building into market-rate apartments.
- Historic Building Restorations: Includes the Keller Red Building and Masonic Temple, both being adapted for mixed use and community purposes.
Other projects include the creation of a small project fund for local improvements, branding and signage initiatives, and upgrades to public spaces like Veteran’s Park and the Town Hall Theater.
Canton’s NY Forward projects aim to boost the downtown area with new housing, community services, and business support:
- Midtown Plaza Redevelopment ($2 million): A mixed-use space featuring housing, a business center, and shared community areas.
- Village Green Upgrades ($1.1 million): New lighting, pathways, and landscaping to improve this central public space.
- Commercial Fitness Center ($807,000): Renovation of a vacant property into a downtown wellness hub.
- Expansion of Nature’s Storehouse ($497,000): Growth of a local health food store into a broader wellness center.
- TAUNY Center Upgrades ($100,000): Accessibility and interior improvements at a local arts and cultural venue.
In Alexandria Bay, the projects target improvements to the downtown streetscape, support for local businesses, and preservation of historic sites:
- James Street Streetscape Project ($3 million): Pedestrian-focused redesign including a plaza, new sidewalks, lighting, and landscaping.
- Renovation of 27 and 34 James Street: Buildings will be turned into mixed-use spaces including apartments, retail, and food services.
- Branding and Wayfinding Initiative ($250,000): New signage to strengthen community identity and support tourism.
- Historic Preservation: Includes repairs to the Cornwall Brothers Store and Museum and restoration of 20 Walton Street for commercial use.
- Small Project Fund ($285,000): Matching grants for smaller renovations and public art projects.
Officials say these projects will help address long-term community goals including housing needs, economic diversification, and tourism development. Each village developed its project list in collaboration with local planning groups and state agencies.
“These are strategic investments that will help each community grow while maintaining their unique character,” said Empire State Development President and CEO Hope Knight.
Construction and implementation of the projects are expected to roll out in phases over the next several years.
